How do i use edex?

How to Use Edex (Alprostadil for Injection)

Edex is an injectable form of alprostadil used to treat erectile dysfunction by relaxing blood vessels in the penis, allowing increased blood flow for an erection. It is self-administered directly into the penis (intracavernous injection). Always follow your doctor's instructions, as dosage is personalized based on response and health factors. Do not use without a prescription.

Standard Dosing and Preparation Steps

• Starting dose: Typically 2.5 or 5 mcg (micrograms) per injection, adjusted up to a maximum of 40 mcg. Use no more than 3 times per week, with at least 24 hours between doses.
  
• Reconstitution: Edex comes as a powder in a vial. Mix with the provided diluent (bacteriostatic water) using the supplied syringe. Gently swirl—do not shake—to dissolve into a clear solution. Use immediately; discard if cloudy or discolored.
  
• Injection volume: Usually 0.5 mL after mixing, regardless of dose.[1]
  
  

Step-by-Step Injection Process

1. Wash hands and expose the penis. Sit or stand comfortably.
   
2. Locate the injection site: Midway along the top or side of the penis shaft (lateral or dorsolateral), avoiding visible veins. Rotate sites with each use to prevent scarring.
   
3. Wipe the site with an alcohol swab.
   
4. Assemble the needle (26-30 gauge, 0.5-inch recommended) onto the syringe. Remove air bubbles by tapping and pushing the plunger.
   
5. Hold the penis firmly at the base with one hand. Insert the needle straight into the side at a 90-degree angle, fully to the hub.
   
6. Inject slowly over 5-10 seconds. Withdraw needle and apply pressure with a gauze pad or alcohol swab for 5 minutes to stop bleeding.
   
7. Massage the penis gently from base to tip for 1-2 minutes to distribute the drug.
   Erection usually starts within 5-20 minutes and lasts 30-60 minutes.[1][2]
   
   

What to Expect and Timing

Sexual stimulation is not required, but the erection occurs 5-20 minutes post-injection and may last up to 1 hour. Intercourse can happen anytime during this window. If no erection after 20 minutes, contact your doctor—do not redose.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Injecting into the urethra, top of penis (dorsal vein risk), or too deeply.
  
• Using expired or improperly stored vials (refrigerate powder; reconstituted solution stable 24 hours at room temp).
  
• Overdosing, which risks priapism (prolonged erection >4 hours—seek emergency care immediately).
  
  

Risks and When to Seek Help

• Side effects: Pain at injection site (most common), bruising, swelling, or penile fibrosis with overuse. Rare: priapism, dizziness, or low blood pressure.
  
• Stop use and call a doctor for erection lasting >4 hours, severe pain, or signs of infection (redness, fever).
  
• Contraindications: Not for those with penile implants, blood disorders, or allergies to alprostadil. Caution with heart disease or blood thinners.[1][2]
  
  

Storage and Disposal

Keep unopened vials in fridge (36-46°F). After mixing, use within 24 hours. Dispose of needles in a sharps container.

Consult your prescribing physician or pharmacist for a demo, as improper use risks serious injury. Patient instructions are in the FDA-approved label.[1]

[1]: Edex Prescribing Information (FDA)
[2]: Medscape - Alprostadil Dosing